In the era of the sudden pandemic, the issue of proper arrangement of home life is becoming increasingly important. Many people began to spend much more time at home, which determined their life habits and requirements for the environment. Experts of the imm cologne exhibition identified six trends that will affect the structure of our homes in the near future – among them there are both new and those that have been transformed from the influences of previous years.
Home as an open shelter The pandemic has put a person in front of the need to consider their home as a refuge. However, at present, the requirement to be within the four walls all the time and the natural need to return to a socially active life contradict each other. This has led to a trend that can best be described as a “compromise.” That is, people began to regulate the degree of their own freedom in the conditions that are available to them – that is, to go outside at any opportunity, and sit in the fresh air even on cold days. Thus, there was a trend for the use of structures in homes that can, if necessary, be opened for fresh air.
New comfort Recently, the idea of the house as a “cocoon” – a place fenced off from the world – has been widespread. However, now the popular term “homecoming”, which appeared in the early 2000s, is increasingly recalled – it refers more to the desire to create a beautiful house that has a more positive meaning. Home in a pandemic becomes a place of refuge and gives a sense of security – primarily due to the cozy environment. Hygge, vintage, Scandinavian style and other fashion styles of recent years inspire and reveal our need for a beautiful home.
A small area of living spaces Real estate companies and developers are already seeing tiny spaces as a lucrative business model. In many cities around the world, showcase projects of micro-apartments are planned or have already been developed – from affordable to luxurious.
Rental boom and coliving For all modern nomads, students and single people who want to combine the urban atmosphere with modern comfort and are ready to live in a smaller area – rented apartments on managed objects represent a new attractive concept of life. Such apartments are usually furnished, entry and exit can be flexible, and the rental package – although usually not particularly cheap – includes everything from heating bills and a radio and television license to repairs and sometimes cleaning costs.
Sustainability and green thinking Long before the coronavirus pandemic hit, sustainability criteria began to play a role in buying furniture. The durability of furniture, thanks to factors such as better design and a higher level of workmanship, is becoming increasingly important, as are the “green” creation stories of some pieces of furniture.
Work at home The pandemic has introduced new standards for remote work and quickly normalized them. Designers and industrialists are increasingly asking new questions. Will people return to the offices, and if so, how often will they visit it? What impact will the “hybrid” way of working have on how we communicate, work and create?